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Something's Fishy Around Here

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I'm an oddity here in Florida: I don't eat fish.

I wouldn't eat it for a million bucks. I wouldn't eat it if it would cure psoriasis. I wouldn't eat it for anything in the world because I'm deathly allergic to some kinds of fish, and the rest I simply don't like.

Memories of the dinner at Red Lobster when I was 12 years old - the night I slept on the bathroom floor - are still highly influential in my decision to stay away from fish. My conscious mind knows it happened 20 years ago but my stomach still thinks it happened yesterday. Just walking through the seafood section of the supermarket is enough to make me nauseous.

What does my fish allergy have to do with psoriasis, you ask? Plenty.

There is evidence that consumption of fatty acids found in fish may provide relief of psoriasis symptoms. Specifically, the body needs omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA that are found in fish.

Of course, I can't eat fish! What's a girl to do?

Fortunately, the omega-3 linoleic acid can be obtained from plant sources. The body converts linoleic acid into EPA and DHA. Nutrition-help.com features suggestions for ways to add omega-3 fatty acids to your diet.

If you eat on the run like I do, it's a good idea to consider taking supplements to get the required omega-3 fatty acids. I tried taking fish oil supplements, but I found that they didn't sit well in my stomach and didn't help my skin that much. I am taking flaxseed oil and evening primrose oil supplements, but the jury is still out on these; I haven't taken them long enough to see a difference.

There are some people who would swear on a stack of Bibles that dietary changes have cleared or significantly reduced their psoriasis symptoms. Chief among the proponents of this approach to treating psoriasis is Dr. John O.A. Pagano.

If a dietary approach to treating psoriasis is something that you believe would work for you, I encourage you to try it. I did try it and had some relief, but I lacked the time required to adhere to the strict diet outlined in Dr. Pagano's books. I have noticed that a high dose of sugar makes me itch like mad, so I try to limit my sugar consumption as much as possible.

There are other nutritional supplements you can take if you have psoriasis. Come back next week for more information on how vitamin supplements can help improve psoriasis.